Packers: Top five running backs in the NFC North in 2019

3. Kerryon Johnson, Detroit Lions

With the Detroit Lions in need of a long-term starter at running back in the past few years, Kerryon Johnson showed why he can be a star in his rookie season.

In 2018, Johnson was in a similar situation to Aaron Jones in the Green Bay Packers offense. Despite the fact it was clear Johnson was the Lions’ best running back, the carries were still split with LeGarrette Blount. But with the Lions not bringing back Blount this offseason, Johnson should be given a bigger role in 2019.

And Johnson impressed in his first season. He may have only finished with 641 yards and three touchdowns, but he only played in 10 games and only started seven. His average of 5.4 yards per carry was the second-best in the NFL, with Aaron Jones leading the way at 5.5 YPC.

With 213 receiving yards and a touchdown in 2018, Johnson can also contribute as a pass catcher in the Lions offense.

In his final season at Auburn, Johnson rushed for 1,391 yards and 18 touchdowns. The Lions need to get him the ball more often this year instead of going with a running back-by-committee approach like last season. And if Johnson can stay healthy, he could be one of the league’s breakout stars in 2019.